Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

There is always some element within the Defence budget to anticipate visits of foreign dignitaries. While I do not currently anticipate a need for a Supplementary Estimate in the context of Queen's visit, the matter has to be reviewed by my Department. In the context of my involvement in planning for the visit, it was understood, based on the estimate provided to the Department, that it was unlikely there would be a need for a Supplementary Estimate.

The Department of Defence operates with substantial financial efficiency and remains carefully within its Estimate. The Department continually reviews where it stands financially in terms of living within the financial envelope made available to it for 2011. I can say no more than that at this time I do not anticipate there will be a need for a Supplementary Estimate. I do not anticipate that the engagement of the Defence Forces and the cost of the visit will be in any way inimical to or prevent the Defence Forces from meeting of its objectives during the course of this year. Should there be a change, I will bring the matter to the attention of the House.

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